Tory Island

Location

off the coast of Co. Donegal

History

Tory Island has become very well known for many reasons - one being the native art of the Tory Island artists. Well established as a style of painting, examples of the work are found in the local community hall and exhibitions are often held on the mainland. A Gaeltacht island, Tory is small and yet retains its own distinctive dialect. Only 11 kms from the mainland it is served by ferries from 4 ports during the summer - Downings, Dunbeg, Magheraroarty and Portnablagh. Arriving at the pier on Tory, visitors can see the island's symbol - a T-shaped cross. It is believed that St. Colmcille may have founded a monastery on Tory in the 6th century - a round tower and the ruins of two churches are all that remain. The Tory Island Lighthouse was completed in 1832 and was automated in 1990. Bird-watchers are treated to puffins and, due to its location on the north-west coast, Tory is often visited by interesting migrant birds.

Ferries run from June to September (weather permitting).

Opening Times

No opening times

Visit Length

2hrs

Admission

No admission fees

Information

Leaflets: Yes Guided Tours: Yes Audio Visual: Yes Exhibition: Yes

Facilities

Restaurant: Yes Car Park: Yes Coach Park: Yes Disabled Access: Yes